We received the sad news this morning that the larger-than-life figure and SA culinary icon, Dr Billy Gallagher has died in his sleep.
Dr Gallagher is no stranger to the South African hospitality industry. Born in the UK in 1948, he moved to South Africa in 1973 and was made executive sous-chef at the Southern Sun Hotel. He has touched the lives of thousands of chefs across the world and will be missed by all who knew and were inspired by him.
His career spanned many decades but he is probably most well-known for his work with the South African Chefs Association (SACA). He subsequently became president of the World Association of Chefs Societies (WACS), and later its honorary life president.
The culinary world – local and international, will truly miss this legendary man. Friends, colleagues and many whose paths he crossed, took to share their sentiments on social media.
Go well Chef!
I am sad to read about the loss of a legend and inspiring man, a businessman and great chef: Billy Gallagher. #RIP https://t.co/Z2fy13jlf6
— Barbara Lenhard (@BarbaraLenhard) May 19, 2016
Vaya con Dios Billy Gallagher ?? a truly great man. My friend. Sadly missed, always remembered. #rip pic.twitter.com/CvZtNsMlTM
— Candy Tothill (@CandyTothill) May 20, 2016
#condolences to the family of Chef Billy Gallagher #rip @GoToSouthAfrica #tourism #chefworld https://t.co/ulPddA2rDB
— Shama Nathoo (@ShamaNathoo) May 19, 2016
Unbelievably saddened to wake up to the news about Dr Billy Gallagher. He was a mentor and a hero to so many… https://t.co/07DjfoKyyY
— Restaurant Business (@resbizmag) May 20, 2016
Very sad day for South African chefs. Mentor and teacher, Billy Gallagher rest in peace.
— Katy Rose (@KatysTable) May 20, 2016